Carcinosarcoma of the colon: report of a case with morphological, ultrastructural and molecular analysis
2006

Case Report of Carcinosarcoma of the Colon

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ambrosini-Spaltro Andrea, Vaira Valentina, Braidotti Paola, Rovati Marco PL, Ferrero Stefano, Bosari Silvano

Primary Institution: Pathology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, A.O. San Paolo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

Hypothesis

Is there a common cell progenitor for the epithelial and mesenchymal components of carcinosarcoma?

Conclusion

Molecular analysis suggests that carcinosarcoma of the colon arises from a common cell progenitor.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient was diagnosed with carcinosarcoma after undergoing colonoscopy and biopsy.
  • Molecular analysis revealed the same p53 gene mutation in both tumor components.
  • The patient was treated with capecitabine and is alive two years after surgery despite liver metastases.

Takeaway

This study talks about a rare type of colon cancer that has two different parts, and they might come from the same original cell.

Methodology

The study involved histological examination, immunohistochemical studies, ultrastructural examination, and molecular analysis of the tumor.

Participant Demographics

An 81-year-old man with a history of several health issues.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2407-6-185

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